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Breathtaking Himalayan views, unique culture and the thrilling adventure is what most of books describe about Manaslu Circuit Trek. One of the well-admired trekking trails of Nepal, Manaslu Circuit Trek, stretches all the way from remote village in Gorkha, Arughat to the Base of Mount Manaslu.

Located in the closer proximity with the Tibetan border, Mt. Manaslu is revered as “The Spirit-Mountain”.

Talking about Mount Manaslu, the 8,163 meter tall mountain is the eighth highest mountain of the world located 40 mile east to Annapurna.

Opened for the trekkers in 1991, the Manaslu trek caters some of the best mountain panorama, magnificent highland culture and so many unexplored places with moderately thrilling adventure.

The popular Manaslu trekking route of 177 kilometres (110 mi) usually starts in Arughat Bazaar following an ancient salt-trading route ending two weeks later in Besisahar, which is the starting point of the Annapurna Circuit Trek.

Major Highlights of Manaslu Circuit Trek

Rawness in nature, authentic culture, the unsurpassed alpine beauty and the floral and faunal.

Larkya La Pass, 5,100m, the most dramatic pass of the Himalaya.

Glimpse of 10 peaks over 6,500 metres (21,300 ft) including a few over 7,000 metres (23,000 ft).

The trek lies on the newly developed Great Himalaya Trail.

Wonderful cultural experiences with the Tibetan and mountain people.

Buddhist temples, architecture and tradition.

Larkya Pass -Manaslu Circuit Pass

When To Trek Manaslu Region

The Major trekking season is from March to May and September to November with the busiest season October. With precipitation of both from snowfall and rainfall, it is recommended not to trek during the Monsoon (June – August) and Winter (early month of the year).

Permit and Rules

The entire Circuit covers the MCAP which is managed by the NTNC and is considered ‘restricted’ area.

Plus the trek requires a Restricted Area Permit of $50 per week with 7 USD for each additional day if you happen to trek between December to August, whereas it will cost USD 70 Per Person for first week and extra $10 Per Person Per Day between September to November.

Solo Trek is not allowed, the rule states minimum 2 people with a registered trek guide.

All permits require passport-sized photo, Get in Kathmandu quite cheaply or send it to your guide/company.

* MCAP stands for Manaslu Conservation Area Program and NTNC for National Trust for Nature Conservation

Tips : Let your Travel Company Handle all the permit works, they will arrange permits for you in advance.

Note: If you plan to connect with the Annapurna Circuit later in your trek, you will also need to secure the 2,000 Nepali rupee permit for Annapurna Conservation Area in advance.

What to take on the trek

Hiking boots (long lasting boots) make sure you break them well before arriving in Nepal. One could spend up to 5 to 6 hours a day on the trail.

Soft and light shoes (Rubber shoes/sandals/sneakers) carry a lightweight shoes for after the day hike.

Lightweight sleeping bag, essential during peak seasons (October). Lodges/Tea Houses do offer blankets, but are scarce during the peak season, therefore carrying a sleeping bag (-10 C°) can be a great precaution.

Manaslu Circuit After the April Earthquake

Manaslu trail and the conservation area were one of the affected regions following the earthquake. However thing are different now, one year after the earthquake the damaged trails and broken bridge have been fixed and Tea Houses open to business. With the trail open again for trekkers to explore, many have already trekked the beautiful Manasul with some on the route (while you are reading) and many more planning trek after the earthquake. (if you are planning thenBook Now !)

Manaslu Trail Race to begins in 5th November 2016.

In Addition, 25 racers from all over the world including locals completed the tour of Manasul in the form of a race. The Manaslu Trail Race (gallery) was held on November 2015 with a message if we can do it running, you can do it trekking.

One of the most popular trekking trails in Nepal, Annapurna Base Camp Trek, caters the incredible taste of Trekking in the Himalayas.

This high glacial basin, Annapurna Base Camp is located directly north to Pokhara. Surrounded by a ring of mountains, Machapuchhare, Annapurna I and Hiunchuli respectively, this oval shaped plateau seats at an altitude of over 4,130 m (13,549 ft).

Panoramic view of Annapurna Sanctuary

The magical landscape in and around the Annapurna Base Camp is also called “sanctuary” because of its natural serenity, beauty and the divine presence of the Hindu goddesses Annapurna (8,091m) and Gangapurna (7,455m).

The trekking adventure to Annapurna Base Camp starts from Nayapul which is two hour’s drive from Pokhara. Then lead to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp through Ghandruk and Chhomrong. From there it head towards the Annapurna Base Camp and the ideal trek to the foothill of majestic Annapurna concludes by arriving to Jhinu Danda through Dovan.

Itinerary

Day 1 : Drive to Nayapul & trek to Tikhedhunga

Day 2 : Trek from Tikhedhunga to Ghorepani

Day 3 : Early morning hike to Poon Hill & trek to Tadapani

Day 4 : Trek from Tadapani to Chomrong

Day 5 : Trek from Chomrong to Himalaya Hotel

Day 6 : Trek from Himalayan Hotel to ABC via MBC

Day 7 : Trek to Bamboo

Day 8 : Trek from Bamboo to Jhinu Danda

Day 9 : Trek from Jhinu Danda to Tolka

Day 10 : Trek from Tolka to Phedi and drive to Pokhara

Most of the trail you walk (or any trekking trail of Annapurna Region) is through the protected region of Annapurna Conservation Area Project (ACAP).

Most of the trail in ABC trek is in the protected region of Annapurna Conservation Area.

The Annapurna Conservation Area is Nepal’s largest protected area covering 7,629 km2 (2,946 sq mi) in the Annapurna range of the Himalayas.

When To Go

March to May (spring) and September to December (autumn) are the best months to trek to Annapurna Base Camp. The days will be warm and nights will be usually cold with cool breezes. Those of you who are willing to fight the cold can also do the Annapurna Base Camp Trek in the months of January and February.

Cost and Permits

One must be registered in TIMS (Trekker’s Information Management System) before starting the trek. As mentioned, most of the trekking trail to ABC is inside the protected area of Annapurna Conservation Area. Fees for entering the conservation areas are as follows:

For SAARC Nationals Nepali Rupees 200. (Approx. US $2 per person)

For other Nationals (other than SAARC countries) Nepal Rupees 2,000.(Approx. US $200 per person)

Mostly, TIMS will be registered by your trek company after you arrive in Nepal.

Note: Entrance fee not required for children under 10 years of age and two passport size photographs are required while applying for each Entry Permit.

The highlight of the trek is not only the majestic beauty of the Himalayan scenery but also the rich cultural experience of the Gurung villages and their inhabitants that you meet along the way.

Morning view of Annapurna I South Face from Annapurna Base Camp.

Machapuchare seen from Annapurna Base Camp.

Ghorepani Poon Hill the most intimidating village trekkers encounter during the trek.

Majestic scenery and a mix of cultures unmatched by any other treks in Nepal.

Not an entirely difficult trek, Annapurna Base Camp trekking is an unique experience for adventurers, beginners and experts alike.

Planning to trek Annapurna Base Camp! Remember the maximum altitude you will ascend during trek will be 4,130m. So, you need to be fully prepared for the harsh conditions.

The maximum altitude you will ascend during trek will be 4,130m.

Have an idea of AMS (Acute Motion Sickness) or also referred as Altitude Sickness. Headache, nausea, loss of appetite, shortness of breath, difficulty in sleeping and lack of energy are the symptoms of AMS.

The altitude sickness mostly occurs above 2,400 metres (8,000 feet) and most people can ascend to 2,400 metres (8,000 ft) without difficulty.

It is advice to not to continue (ascend) if you have any symptoms of AMS. It is better you move to lower altitude as soon as possible.

As you are constantly walking/trekking (4 to 5 hrs a day) the secret is to pack lightly as possible. Here is some gears and equipment you need to pack during your trek to Annapurna Base Camp.

Gears & Equipment

Hiking boots (long lasting boots) make sure you break them well before arriving in Nepal. One could spend up to 5 to 6 hours a day on the trail.

Soft and light shoes (Rubber shoes/sandals/sneakers) carry a lightweight shoes for after the day hike.

Lightweight sleeping bag, essential during peak seasons (October-December). Lodges do offer blankets, but are scarce during the peak season, therefore carrying a sleeping bag (-10 C°) can be a great precaution.

The “South” Everest Base Camp, is one of the most popular trekking destination in the himalayas of Nepal and is visited by thousands each year. Ever since Everest, the highest peak in the world, came into spotlight it has been the top of list of adventure seekers all around the planet.

Renowned for spectacular mountain peaks, the Everest Base Camp trek is a fusion of adventurous thrill, fascinating rawness in nature, intriguing Sherpa culture, warm Nepalese hospitality. Everyday day is a unique experience, with something different, here are 9 different pictures or let’s say major highlights of Everest Base Camp trek.

Day 1 : Lukla, Fly from Kathmandu and trek to Phakding.

Tenzing-Hillary “Lukla” Airport, a starting point of any trekking in the Khumbu “Everest” Region. A program titled Most Extreme Airports, broadcast on The History Channel in 2010, rated the airport as the most dangerous airport in the world.

Day 2 : Phakding to Namche Bazar (3,440m/11,283ft), 5-6 hrs walk.

A spectacular view of Kongde Ri peak from Namche Bazar, 5-6 hrs trek from Phakding. Located at 3,440 metres, Namche is the main trading center and hub for the Khumbu region. Keep in mind Namche is the most expensive place in Nepal, at least thrice as expensive as the capital city Kathmandu.

Day 3 : Acclimatization day in Namche.

Everest seen from distance, somewhere from Khumjung Valley. It is recommended to take an altitude acclimatization rest day in Namche, visit neighboring villages Khumjung (3790m) which is over the hill directly behind Namche, about one and a half to two hours trek.

Day 4 : Namche Bazar to Tengboche (3,867m/12,684 ft), 5-6 hrs walk.

View of the mighty peaks like Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam, Thamserku and Kwangde peak, is a constant throughout the day. After reaching Tengboche your attention is drawn by a big Monastery, Tengboche Monastery, the largest in the Khumbu Region.

Day 5 : Tengboche to Dingboche (4,358m/14,295 ft), 5-6 hrs walk.

Approaching Dingboche with Mount Lhotse in the background. Dingboche is a popular stop for trekkers and climbers and usually spend two nights in Dingboche for acclimatization purposes.

Day 6 : Acclimatization day at Dingboche.

Astounding views of Imja Tse (Island Peak), Ama Dablam, Makalu, and the Lhotse face. If you so wish and are physically in excellent condition, you can also take some couple of hours time to hike up to Chhukung Ri, rocky peak at 5,550 metres, it is a worthwhile addition to any climbing or trekking itinerary in the Khumbu region.

Day 7 : Dingboche to Lobuche (4,928m/16164 ft), 5-6 hrs walk.

Village in Lobuche, at elevation of about 4,940 metres. It is one of the last overnight stops with lodging on the trail to base camp, a hike that climbers make on their way to Everest Base Camp (South) when attempting an ascent of Everest.

Trekkers heading towards Gorakshep. Gorak Shep or Gorakshep is a frozen lakebed covered with sand in Nepal, at 5,164 m (16,942 ft) elevation, near Mount Everest. It is the last stop with lodging on the trail to Everest Base Camp.

Day 9: Early hike to Kala Patthar (5,550m/18,204ft) & trek back to Pheriche 6-7 hrs walk.

Everest seen from Kalapathar. KalaPatthar, meaning ‘black rock’ in Nepali is a notable landmark located on the south ridge of Pumori in the Nepalese Himalayas. Since it provides the most accessible point to view Mt. Everest from base camp to peak (due to the structure of Everest, the peak cannot be seen from the base camp), Kala Patthar is very popular with trekkers.

The trek to Everest Base Camp is itself a great achievement for every trek lover who has the strongest desire to witness the closest view of world’s highest peak and is every trekker dreams to be at least once.

After almost 10 months United States and United Kingdom have completely lifted its travel warning against Nepal, including the earthquake affected regions of Nepal.

Trekkers heading towards Everest Base Camp.

On March 11, 2016 The Foreign and Commonwealth Office of UK updated its travel advice mentioning ‘advice against all but essential travel lifted for all areas of Nepal’. UK relaxed the restriction in view of Prince Harry’s first ever upcoming official visit to Nepal from March 19-23. [Source : The Kathmandu Post]

The US Department of State on 7th March, 2016 cancelled its travel warning for Nepal. The US Embassy in Kathmandu in a statement said that the travel warning was lifted “because conditions have changed, with the end of blockade and the effects of the earthquake no more in the country”. [Source : Republica]

Before, on July 4, three countries US, the UK and New Zealand—lifted restrictions on their citizens travelling to Nepal, except for districts hit hard by the April 25 earthquake and following aftershocks.

If you are looking for something adventurous, something exciting then Nepal is your perfect destination. Nepal fascinates you with its environmental and cultural diversity like no any other countries in the world. This diverse country has something for everyone regardless of what the interests, let’s say a surprise stored for you in every corner.

The recent April 2015 earthquake has taken thousand of lives made many homeless and many ancients building turned in rebels. Now almost after eight months, Nepal and Nepalese people are back on its feet living a normal life.

Again the question IS Nepal Safe? hits you hard and thinking. Should I or should I not go to Nepal? Lets us remind u!!

Many countries have already uplifted its Travel restriction to Nepal.

Thousands of tourist/travelers have visited Nepal after the earthquake according to Nepal Tourism Board (NTB) & TAAN.

Nat Geo Traveler Magazine and Forbes, the two leading magazine have listed Nepal on its “Cool list” for 2016.

So, add thrill and adventure to your holiday with some of these must to activities.

Explore the remarkable gems of the Himalayas

Nepal is an only one of its kind trekking destination. Trekking in Nepal is the best way to discover Nepal’s indomitable mixture of natural and cultural wonders while walking on pristine trails of the Himalayas. Almost all of the trekking routes in Nepal take you right through the majestic Himalayas while you walk close to the ethnic villages in the region, explore their rich culture and consider the unique landscape.

Everest Base Camp, The only place on Earth where every mountaineer plans of conquering world’s highest peak, Everest and every trekker dreams to be at least once- Everest Base Camp Trek 5357m

Gokyo trek, the trek to the most peaceful regions of glacial lakes in Everest, where a ridge top caters the best views of Everest, Cho-Oyu, Lhotse and Khumbu Glacier.

Ghorepani Poonhill, The most wonderful short trek in Annapurna Region that holds the magic of Himalayan panorama, encounters the beautiful and kind Gurung people.

Upper Mustang, Explore the ancient kingdom of Lho which nestles at the rainshadow of majestic Dhaulagiri.

Upper Dolpo, Lying in close proximity with Tibet, Upper Dolpo is genuinely a Tibet outside Tibet.

Annapurna Base Camp, An ideal trek to the foothill of majestic Annapurna, which offers great cultural side of Nepalese mid-hills along with the beauty of Annapurna Himalayas and alpine woodlands.

Trekking in Nepal is doable in all seasons, depending on which area you want to go and presents you with varying degree of challenges without reducing the thrill. However, the most popular seasons to trek in Nepal are Pre-monsoon (March to June) and Post-monsoon (September to November).

Witness the architectural and cultural marvels

Though holiday in Nepal refers to trekking, insightful tour around Nepal during the visit is a must do. The culture of Nepal is rich and unique. The cultural heritage of Nepal has evolved over the centuries. This multidimensional heritage encompasses the diversities of Nepal’s ethnic, tribal, and social groups. With 8 heritage site listed in the UNESCO Cultural heritage site.

Bhaktapur Durbar Square is the plaza in front of the royal palace of the old Bhaktapur Kingdom.

A only living goddess. Tradition of worshiping young pre-pubescent girls as manifestations of the divine female energy or devi in Hindu religious traditions.

Patan Durbar Square is situated at the centre of the city of Lalitpur in Nepal. One of its attraction is the ancient royal palace where the Malla Kings of Lalitpur resided.

Swayambhunath is an ancient religious architecture atop a hill in the Kathmandu Valley.

The Pashupatinath Temple is a famous, sacred Hindu temple dedicated to Pashupatinath and is located on the banks of the Bagmati River 5 kilometres north-east of Kathmandu Valley.

In Hinduism, a sādhu is a religious ascetic or holy person.

Age, physical condition and time are not obstacles to explore Nepal. Note that not all but only few cultural sites have been affected by the earthquake. The affected area is barred and lanes have been marked for the safety of the visitors. You can still walk around and visit many other temples and historic buildings that remain throughout the country.

Up close and personal with the Mountains

Home to the highest mountain of the world Mt. Everest, Nepal has always attracted mountaineering enthusiasts, amateur and experienced alike. If you are upto the challenge then Nepal is right place. Among the identified 1310 peaks above 6000 meter, one quarter are officially opened for mountaineering activities. Peak climbing in Nepal gives you the experience of both trekking and mountaineering.

Island Peak 6189m, one of the most popular trekking peaks in the world which lies in the Khumbu/Everest region- at Sagarmatha National Park.

Mera Peak 6,476m, Preferred for peak climbing by both hardcore as well as moderate and novice climbers giving you a unique fusion experience of trekking and peak climbing.

Yala Peak 5732m , Extension of Langtang Valley Trek, Yala Peak Climbing holds all the fun and adventure of walking through tropical forest to easy alpine trail. Additional reward, the culture of Tibetan Tamangs living in the region for centuries.

The growing popularity of the trekking peaks in Nepal is down to the fact that visitors not only get to trek some of the world’s popular trails, but also experience the adventure of mountaineering. Depending upon the amount of time and climbing experience you have, you can choose a peak that best suits you.

Relive the adventure

Nepal is a perfect playground for those adventure junkies who love blood pumping, heart racing, breathtaking, and thrilling adventure. Nepal caters some of the best of best adventures which will surely get your adrenalin going.

Mountain Biking in nepal is relatively a new addition to the menu of tourist activities in the country. Mountain biking can be the ultimate way of exploring the dramatic landscape that the acute topographical variation Nepal offers.

Paragliding Nepal, experience the amazing beauty of Pokhara valley while you fly over villages, monasteries, temples, lakes and jungle, accompanied by Himalayan griffins, eagles, and kites.

White Water Rafting, Nepal is blessed with an amazing diversity of rivers. Feel the adrenaline while tackling some of the the wildest fast flowing rivers.

Zip Line, With an incline of 56 degree, total length of 1.8 km and a vertical drop of 600 meters, it is the tallest, the longest and the steepest zipline in the whole world.

Be apart of a fascinating tales to tell your friends as you experience the thrills in the land of adventures.

Keeping close to the nature

Amidst the hype of the miraculous thrill of the Himalayan terrain and the beautiful yet challenging peaks, it is easy to forget that Nepal has a total of 14 national parks and wildlife reserves. Wildlife diversity is a notable feature of Nepal. Home for some of the mostly endangered species in the subcontinent, terai region of Nepal has some of the most exciting jungle safari destinations of the Indian subcontinent.

Elephant ride

Elephant bathing

Jungle Drive safari

Jungle Walk

Nepal is home for some of the most endangered species in the sub continent.

Experience the wilderness on a back of an elephant or a four wheel jeep jungle safari ride. Keeping up close with the nature can be perfect holidaying option.

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Offer on some of the best Outdoor Destinations!! (till end of July 2016)

The most powerful disaster to strike Nepal since the 1934 Nepal-Bihar earthquake, the 2015 Nepal earthquake is believed to have killed more than 6100 people as on 29th April 2015. The earthquake occurred on 25 April 2015 at 11:56 a.m. NST (06:11:26 UTC) at a depth of approximately 15 km (9.3 mi) ,with its epicenter approximately 34 km (21 mi) east-southeast of Lamjung, Nepal, lasting approximately twenty seconds.

The earthquake was firstly reported as 7.5 Mw by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) before it was promptly upgraded to 7.9 Mw and finally downgraded to 7.8 Mw. The China Earthquake Networks Center (CENC) reported the earthquake’s magnitude to be 8.1 Mw.

A major aftershock of magnitude 6.7 M occurred on 26 April 2015 in the same region at 12:55 NST (07:09 UTC), with an epicenter located about 17 km (11 mi) south of Kodari, Nepal causing fresh avalanches on Mount Everest.

Aftermath

The Prime Minister ofNepal, Sushil Koirala, has said that the number of causalities could reach 10,000. Hundreds of people are still considered missing and more than 450,000 are displaced

Avalanches on Mount Everest have killed at least 19 climbers, including Google executive Dan Fredinburg, with dozens injured or missing. Whereas In the Langtang valley, around 250 people have been account missing after a enormous avalanche that resulted in the village of Langtang being totaly wiped out

In Kathmandu, Kathmandu Durbar Square a UNESCO World Heritage Site, collapsed, as did the Dharahara tower. Several temples, including Kasthamandap, Panchtale temple, the nine-storey Basantapur Durbar, the Dasa Avtar temple were demolished by the quake. Other monuments, including the Kumari Temple and the Taleju Bhawani Temple have partially collapsed.The top of the Jay Bageshwori Temple in Gaushala and some parts of the Pashupatinath Temple, Swyambhunath, Boudhanath Stupa, Ratna Mandir, inside Rani Pokhari, and Durbar High School have been destroyed. In Tripureshwor, the Kal Mochan Ghat, a temple inspired by Mughal architecture, was completely destroyed and the nearby Tripura Sundari also suffered significant damage.

In Patan, the Char Narayan Mandir, the statue of Yog Narendra Malla, a pati inside Patan Durbar Square, the Taleju Temple, the Hari Shanker, Uma Maheshwor Temple and the Machhindranath Temple in Bungmati were destroyed.

In Bhaktapur, several monuments, including the Fasi Deva temple, the Chardham temple and the 17th century Vatsala Durga Temple, were destroyed.

Outside the Valley, the Manakamana Temple in Gorkha, the Gorkha Durbar, the Palanchowk Bhagwati, in Kavrepalanchowk District, the Rani Mahal in Palpa District, the Janaki Mandir in Janakpur, the Churiyamai in Makwanpur District, the Dolakha Bhimsensthan in Dolakha District, and the Nuwakot Durbar were moderately destroyed.